Harlan J. McGrath

(ALBION/HOLLEY)

Harlan James McGrath, 79, passed away on October 11th at Strong Memorial Hospital surrounded by his family. He was born on April 1, 1947, the first of three sons to the late Harold and Louise (Piedmonte) McGrath. Those who knew him best always called him “Red.”

Some of his fondest childhood memories were of the time spent on his grandparents’ farm. He grew up in Holley and graduated in 1965. Soon after, he joined the US Army to serve his country during the Vietnam War and was stationed in Germany. He and his wife later moved to Albion, where he lived for the remainder of his life. They loved riding their bikes along the canal, walking in Mt. Albion Cemetery, and golfing at local courses. As a family, they spent their summers camping, fishing, swimming at Gene’s Quarry, and going out for ice cream.

He dedicated 30 years to the Holley Post Office before retiring in 2002. In 2014, he received a kidney transplant, which enabled him to truly appreciate his retirement with his wife. Together, they spent their time bowling, traveling, visiting their daughters in San Francisco, and taking leisurely walks at Swallow Hollow.

He was an avid reader who loved fishing, music, and the Buffalo Bills. In his younger years, he also enjoyed riding his motorcycle and looking for a good party. But more than anything else, he is fondly remembered by many for his great sense of humor.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother Ronald.

Harlan is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Julie; his children Peter (Janene) McGrath, Samantha (Antonio) McGrath, Rachel (Steve) Gaddis; grandchildren Madilynn, Mitchell, Marshall, Zoe, Leah, and Hannah; brother Kevin (Debbie) McGrath; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Harlan's family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Ave., Albion, NY on Monday, November 23rd (additional details will be provided at a later date).

Memorial contributions may be made to The Hoag Library (https://www.hoaglibrary.org/support) or the KCNQ2 Cure Alliance (https://www.kcnq2cure.org/)

To share a special memory of Harlan, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.